Democrat Zohran Mamdani assumed office as New York City’s mayor on Thursday, pledging an ambitious agenda focused on easing the cost-of-living pressures facing the nation’s largest city. Speaking during a public swearing-in ceremony on the steps of City Hall, Mamdani said his administration would prioritize working families and reject the influence of wealthy donors.
Mamdani, 34, secured a high-profile victory in last November’s election, energizing the Democratic Party’s left wing and potentially shaping political narratives ahead of this year’s U.S. midterm elections. While several Democrats have praised his grassroots appeal, Republicans have framed him as a controversial national figure.
Throughout his campaign, Mamdani emphasized rising housing costs, transportation expenses and childcare burdens. Moreover, he sharply criticized Republican President Donald Trump, whose approval ratings have declined amid ongoing economic concerns. As a result, expectations around Mamdani’s leadership remain high among New York’s roughly 8 million residents.
Following the ceremony, Mamdani reiterated core promises, including universal childcare, affordable rent policies and free bus services across the city. “We will answer to all New Yorkers, not to any billionaire or oligarch who believes money can buy our democracy,” he said, adding that he would govern in line with democratic socialist principles.
The inauguration drew several thousand supporters despite freezing temperatures. Notably, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, both leading figures of the party’s progressive wing, addressed the crowd in support of Mamdani’s agenda. Sanders argued that affordable housing policies were necessary, not radical.
As Sanders urged higher taxes on wealthy Americans, the crowd erupted into chants of “tax the rich,” highlighting the movement’s populist energy. Meanwhile, city officials arranged livestream viewing areas along Broadway, allowing thousands more to follow the ceremony.
Supporters described the moment as a turning point. Campaign volunteer Mae Hardman-Hill said Mamdani’s rise signaled growing momentum for progressive politics in New York. Consequently, political observers across the country are watching closely as Mamdani begins translating campaign promises into policy.
